How does a cat's sterilization go at the veterinarian? - briefly
Sterilizing a cat involves surgically removing its reproductive organs under general anesthesia. The procedure is typically quick and straightforward, with the cat usually ready for discharge later that day or the next morning.
How does a cat's sterilization go at the veterinarian? - in detail
Sterilizing a cat is a common procedure performed by veterinarians to prevent unwanted litters and reduce behavioral issues associated with hormonal activity. The process involves surgically removing the reproductive organs of the cat, typically the ovaries and uterus in females (ovariohysterectomy) or the testes in males (orchiectomy). Here is a detailed breakdown of how this procedure is carried out at a veterinary clinic:
Pre-Operative Care
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Consultation: The process begins with a consultation between the owner and the veterinarian. During this meeting, the vet explains the benefits and risks of sterilization and answers any questions the owner may have.
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Pre-Anesthetic Examination: A thorough physical examination is conducted to ensure the cat is healthy enough for surgery. This includes checking vital signs, examining the abdomen, and reviewing the cat's medical history.
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Laboratory Tests: Blood tests are often performed to assess the cat's overall health and detect any underlying issues that could complicate the procedure. These tests usually include a complete blood count (CBC) and a biochemical profile.
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Fasting: The cat is required to fast overnight before the surgery to ensure an empty stomach, which reduces the risk of vomiting and aspiration during anesthesia.
Surgical Procedure
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Anesthesia Administration: On the day of the surgery, the cat is administered a combination of sedatives and anesthetic agents, typically via injection or inhalation. This ensures that the cat remains unconscious and pain-free throughout the procedure.
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Surgical Preparation: The surgical site (usually the abdomen) is clipped of hair and cleaned with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection. Sterile drapes are then placed over the area to maintain a sterile field.
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Ovariohysterectomy (Female Cats):
- An incision is made in the abdomen, typically along the midline.
- The uterus and ovaries are carefully isolated from surrounding tissues.
- Ligatures (sutures) are placed around the uterine horns, ovarian pedicles, and the cervix to prevent bleeding.
- The uterus and ovaries are removed through the incision.
- The incision is closed using absorbable sutures, and the skin is stitched or sealed with surgical glue.
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Orchiectomy (Male Cats):
- A small incision is made in the scrotum.
- Each testicle is carefully extracted from the scrotal sac.
- The vas deferens and blood vessels are ligated to prevent bleeding.
- The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures.
Post-Operative Care
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Recovery: After the surgery, the cat is moved to a recovery area where it is closely monitored until it regains consciousness and stability.
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Pain Management: Pain medications are administered to ensure the cat's comfort during the recovery period.
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Aftercare Instructions: The owner receives detailed aftercare instructions, which typically include:
- Keeping the cat quiet and confined for 10-14 days to allow proper healing.
- Preventing the cat from licking or chewing at the incision site. An Elizabethan collar may be used for this purpose.
- Monitoring the incision for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
- Scheduling a follow-up appointment to remove any non-absorbable sutures and ensure proper healing.
Long-Term Considerations
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Diet: The cat's diet may need to be adjusted to prevent weight gain, which is a common side effect of sterilization due to the reduction in metabolic rate.
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Behavioral Changes: Owners should be aware that sterilization can lead to changes in behavior, such as reduced marking and roaming tendencies in males and decreased heat-related behaviors in females.
By following these detailed steps, veterinarians ensure the safe and effective sterilization of cats, promoting their long-term health and well-being.